Research Associate (Fixed Term) - New frontiers in demographic and public health history

TN United Kingdom; Cambridge; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for a motivated Research Associate to join a groundbreaking project focused on demographic changes in England and Wales. This role offers the chance to delve into historical archives, utilizing your archival and data literacy skills to uncover vital information from the 19th and early 20th centuries. With opportunities for remote work and job sharing, this position not only allows for independent research but also encourages collaboration within a vibrant academic community. Ideal candidates will have a PhD or be in progress, bringing a passion for history and social sciences.

Qualifications

• Postgraduate research experience in historical sources from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Knowledge of historical censuses of Great Britain is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Collect data from national and local archives related to public health and education.
• Work independently and as part of a team on demographic changes project.

Skills

Archival Skills

Data Literacy

Computer Skills

Excel

Education

PhD in History

Postgraduate Research Experience

Tools

Excel

Job description

Research Associate (Fixed Term) - New frontiers in demographic and public health history, Cambridge

University of Cambridge is seeking a Research Associate to work on a new project funded by a private donation, based with the Cambridge Group for the History of Population and Social Structure in the Faculty of History. The role will be under the guidance of Prof S. R. S Szreter and is linked to a part-time position in the Department of Geography under Prof K. Schürer, working closely together.

The project focuses on demographic changes in England and Wales from the mid-19th to early 20th century, requiring excellent archival skills to collect data from national and local archives, including sources related to local labour markets, education, poor relief, and public health, as well as local newspapers. Knowledge of the historical censuses of Great Britain is desirable but not essential. Strong data literacy and computer skills, especially with Excel, are required.

Candidates should have postgraduate research experience in sourcing, handling, and processing historical sources from the 19th and early 20th centuries, preferably related to England and Wales. A PhD in History or a related social science/humanities field is expected or in progress.

The successful candidate will be highly motivated, organized, detail-oriented, and capable of working independently and as part of a team. The role offers opportunities to participate in faculty and university activities, including seminars and reading groups. Remote working and job sharing are possible for suitable candidates.

This is a fixed-term position with funding for 18 months. Successful applicants will undergo a health assessment after accepting the offer. The university promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK.